Kyoto Castles

Kyoto has 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than 1600 Buddhist temples and over 400 Shinto shrines.

Here are a few photos of some of the temples and shrines, that my neighbor George recently visited, and the beautiful gardens that surround them.

This almost looks like a peaceful caretaker's cottage (above).  What do you think?

The details of these ancient structures (below) are exquisite.

This (below) seems like an idyllic country scene.

I love how the pagoda (below) peeks above the roof line of the village.

Even the placement of the trees seems deliberate.

These structures have a fairytale-like quality.

I think the time of year (late summer/early fall) is just perfect in these photos.

An old covered bridge - reminding us that the winters can be hard here.

These zen gardens are so lovely.  Why do I have the urge to run through the sand and leave my footprints behind?  I'm such a brat.

Someone has taken the time to rake these so beautifully, leaving no trace of themselves behind.

Have a peaceful day!